Best of Taoism – Male and Female

The female should understand the male, yet not imitate him; she should be happy being a female. The male should understand the female, yet not imitate her; he should be happy being male. Nothing can be built on a female foundation alone; and nothing can be built on a male foundation alone. But when the female and the male are together and yet distinct, the whole world can be built on them.

Darkness should understand light, yet not imitate it; darkness should be happy being dark. Light should understand dark, yet not imitate it; light should be happy being light. Nothing can be revealed by darkness alone. But when darkness and light are together and yet distinct, the mystery of eternity and infinity is made plain.

Glory should understand modesty, yet not imitate it; glory should be happy being glorious. Modesty should understand glory, yet not imitate it. Nothing can be gained by glory alone; and nothing can be gained by modesty alone. But when glory and modesty are together and yet distinct, the world can be made as it should be.

Uncut wood is carved to make useful things; wise people can be shaped into great leaders. The best carving is done without cutting and joining.

Best of Taoism – Questions to ask yourself?

Can you keep the soul in your body? Can your body function in harmony with the soul? Can you learn to be whole?

Can you draw your energy back into yourself? Can you become supple? Can you learn to be a baby?

Can you keep deep water still and clear, so that it reflects without distortion? Can you love people as they are?

Can you manage things without exerting authority? Can you organize things be doing nothing?

Can you open and close the gates of heaven with ease? Can you enter and leave heaven, as a bird enters and leaves its nest?

Can you pierce the mystery of the universe? Can you know without knowing?

Can you bear a child, give birth to it and nourish it, without possessing it?

Can you act without taking credit for your actions?

Can you lead, and not rule?